Restoration at heart of Independence Day

Sharon Munjenjema
This year’s Independence celebrations are shaped around the mantra of economic revival and re-engagement, as espoused by the new dispensation’s drive to stimulate economic growth and build previously broken down relations.

In an interview, Harare Metropolitan Provincial Affairs Minister Mirriam Chikukwa said the main celebrations would be held at the National Sports Stadium in Harare under the theme: “Zimbabwe at 38: Socio-economic restoration and international re-engagement”.

She said the theme was representative of President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s vision.

“Our President has been advancing re-engagement and development agenda because our country has been isolated for a long time,” said the minister. “There is also his mantra that Zimbabwe is open for business, you cannot open for business if you don’t re-engage.”

Minister Chikukwa said preparations for the festivities were on course.

“All ministries that have something to do with independence are busy making preparations,” said Minister Chikukwa. Minister Chikukwa said a children’s party had been slated for Independence Day eve.

“On the 17th there will be the usual children’s party to be held at the City Sports Centre,” she said. “The Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education will facilitate that one. The party is hosted by the First Family.”

Minister Chikukwa said 30 buses had been secured to ferry people in Harare from the “usual pick-up points from 6am”, the time gates at the National Sports Stadium will also open.

Foreign dignitaries are expected to grace the event where musicians Alick Macheso, Killer T and ZCC Mbungo Stars have been lined up to provide entertainment.